Entries Tagged '2008' ↓

4th of October, 2005. I was guiding for an American couple who had just gotten married. We were on the Laya Lingshi trek, camped at Chebisa, a small beautiful village 5 hours from Lingshi. That day we were supposed to cross the Goku La (4350m), but when we woke up in the morning, we were covered in snow. It had been a wet trek since we crossed Chomolhari 3 days back, and to wake up again with snow falling heavy was not something all of us were looking forward to. Our boots were wet, sleeping bags were damp, and we were running out of dry clothes. It was so tempting that day to call for a break, and somehow make up for the lost day along our trek. We still had 7 days to hit the road. No one was in a hurry that morning, and as the lead guide, everyone was waiting for me to announce the halt.

What a year 2008 has been for Bhutan. A unique Constitution, a brand new democracy, and a dynamic young King. As we celebrate this National Day which marks the last of the celebrations of this special and eventful year, I am overwhelmed at being a close witness to such historic events.

The Grand Chipdrel procession welcoming His Majesty to the National Stadium.

It is the desire of His Majesty the King that Bhutanese citizens offer His Majesty just the tashi khadar for the Coronation, with no presents, said the Prime Minister, Lyonchhen Jigmi Thinley. The celebrations of the Coronation will be organised so that all well-wishers will be given the opportunity to offer His Majesty the khadar.

As excitement builds for the official coronation of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, behind the scenes, the mystical century-old process has already begun.

The ceremony on November 6 is the final, public ceremony, what is known as the outer aspect of Chi Nang-Sang Sum (strictly interpreted as Inner, Secret and Outer Coronation or more loosely as sacred and public coronation).